Packaging
Second generation FlexPickerTM robot is even more productive
Friday 02. May 2008 - With increased speed, higher payload and a smaller footprint, the new FlexPicker IRB360 from ABB Robotics is the "second generation" robot for pick and place applications. When combined with PickMaster software and the IRC5 robot controller, this new robot system is designed to further improve productivity and flexibility in packing operations.
Several important objectives have been met in the new generation design and its outstanding features include 50% higher payload. Increased payload capacity provides two clearly defined benefits: the first is the ability to handle heavier objects; the second is to accommodate the mass of the increasingly sophisticated grippers required in handling diverse products.
The new robot succeeds ABBs widely used FlexPicker IRB340 system and is the result of 10 years experience and research and development combined with proven packaging technology. ABB has over 1800 delta robots installed globally and is the leader in this state of the art picking and packing technology. Growth is currently at the rate of 40% per annum and the new generation robots will see that increase further. Measured against alternative robot technologies, the FlexPicker wins hands down for accuracy, speed, reliability and versatility.
The average cycle time performance of the new IRB360 has improved by over 20%, and has a competitive edge where there is a particular requirement for movement on a fourth axis. The fourth axis has an extensive work range and, due to excellent motion control and its robust design, does not in any way limit the robot performance.
The robot has been configured to enable easy cleaning and reduced maintenance. The theta axis has been made with a stainless robust variant really made for the open food industry. The smaller footprint enables valuable space to be kept to a minimum and allows it to be built into machines & productions lines for many packing applications. This is combined with reliability and ease of use. Finally, the new robot has been designed to price performance is very competitive.
Complementing the new generation FlexPicker is ABBs proven PickMaster software that makes programming simple. The software enables modelling for applications and assists with the optimization of multiple robot installations. The reliable, market leading IRC5 controller is also an integral part of the FlexPicker robot. The IRC5 is also now available in a panel-mounted version that offers substantial space savings and easy integration into machines and production lines.
SIDE BAR COPY
High speed flexibility
High capacity – up to 3kg payloads
Top mounted design
Hygienic design for wash down applications
Superior tracking performance
Integrated vision software
The new family of IRB robots includes three models:
The “compact” version is a fast robot with a picking range of 800mm
The “standard” version has a similar performance but a greater reach of 1130mm
The “high payload” version has a similar reach but a payload up to 3kg